Orlando Pirates announce Relebohile Mofokeng transfer to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise in landmark European move

Orlando Pirates have officially confirmed that a transfer agreement has been reached for rising star Relebohile Mofokeng to join Belgian side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, pending a medical examination and final personal terms.

The announcement brings clarity to weeks of speculation surrounding the 21-year-old winger, whose rapid rise has attracted attention across Europe following a breakthrough season in South Africa and impressive performances on the global stage.

According to the club, negotiations between both sides have now been concluded, with only formalities left before the move is completed.

Deal agreed before World Cup impact

In a revealing statement, Pirates disclosed that an agreement in principle had already been reached prior to the start of the tournament, but both clubs deliberately chose to delay any public confirmation.

“The club can also reveal that an agreement in principle between Orlando Pirates and Union Saint-Gilloise was in fact reached before the start of the FIFA World Cup,” the statement noted.

The decision was taken to ensure Mofokeng remained fully focused on international duty with South Africa national football team, allowing his performances to speak for themselves without the distraction of transfer negotiations.

Club officials also emphasised the importance of allowing the national team’s historic campaign to dominate attention during the tournament window.

Breakout season before European leap

Mofokeng’s rise has been one of the defining stories of the domestic season. The winger delivered a standout campaign, registering 10 goals and eight assists as Pirates ended a 14-year wait for league glory in the 2025–2026 season.

His direct attacking play, creativity in wide areas, and composure in decisive moments made him one of the most influential figures in the squad’s title-winning run.

That domestic form translated seamlessly onto the international stage, where he emerged as one of South Africa’s most promising young performers.

World Cup stage confirms rising reputation

At the global tournament, Mofokeng further enhanced his reputation with key contributions during Bafana Bafana’s group campaign.

He made a notable impact after coming off the bench in a 1-1 draw against Czech Republic national football team, injecting pace and attacking urgency into the contest.

His influence grew in the decisive 1-0 victory over South Korea national football team, a result that secured South Africa’s progression to the knockout stage for the first time in their history.

Those performances underlined his ability to perform under pressure on football’s biggest stage, further accelerating interest from European clubs.

Medical pending as European chapter awaits

While the agreement marks a significant milestone in Mofokeng’s career, the transfer will only be finalised after he completes a medical and agrees personal terms with Union Saint-Gilloise.